Hooves thundered, champagne corks popped and the crowds roared as York's most famous race meeting got off to a spectacular start.

Thousands of spectators flocked to Knavesmire for the start of the Ebor Festival yesterday, as the flagship three-day meeting at York Races got under way.

A brass band played and the sun broke through the clouds to make for a perfect atmosphere ahead of one of the country's richest races - the Juddmonte International.

Pennita Brudenell, 26, of Helmsley, was among those enjoying a quick flutter and hoping for a few winners.

She turned heads in a spectacular fuchsia pink hat and turquoise dress from her own boutique, Pennita, and even jockey Frankie Dettori complimented her on her fabulous feathered hat.

Pennita said: "I'm here for a girlie day out with friends, but I'm coming back with my husband Guy for ladies' day on Thursday."

Kelly Charlton and Mandy Harrison were also enjoying a girls' day out.

Kelly, who works as a secretary for a trainer in Malton, insisted she hadn't had any good tips.

Mandy, 36, said: "We're just here to have a few drinks and a few bets."

After the racing, crowds joined the brass band and singer James Watt on the trackside lawn for a sing-along.

Popular numbers included Daisy, Daisy and Swing Low Sweet Chariot.

Thousands more race-goers are expected to soak up the atmosphere again today with Ebor Day promising to be even bigger and better.